Midfielder joined by Malawi native Chester in joining Sarachan’s squad for new season

CARY, N.C. – North Carolina FC announced on Wednesday it had made a pair of new signings with the addition of midfielder Austin Panchot and forward Yamikani Chester to its squad for the 2019 USL Championship season. The signings are pending league and federation approval.

Panchot joins NCFC after completing a standout career at Indiana University. During his time with the Hoosiers, Panchot played 82 matches, scored 13 goals and notched nine assists. In his final season with Indiana, the midfielder helped lead his team to the NCAA College Cup, including scoring two game-winning goals in the NCAA Tournament. Panchot also has local ties, as his father Jeff Panchot played college soccer at North Carolina State.

“Austin is coming from an outstanding program with good coaching and a great environment,” said NCFC Head Coach Dave Sarachan. “They had a good run this year and he was one of four or five seniors that I watched, and I think could translate to the next level. His starting point coming in will be good for a young player and he’ll have some versatility.”

Chester comes to North Carolina FC on a season-long loan from MFK Vyskov – a Czech Republic club that has also loaned striker Donovan Ewolo to NCFC. Chester is a speedy winger who hails from Malawi. Prior to joining MFK Vyskov, he spent his career developing in Malawi’s professional league with Be Forward Wanderers Football Club and Tigers FC. He burst onto the national scene via standout performances with the Malawi National Team in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

“Yamikani came to us and I know his representation are people we trust,” said Sarachan. “When I watched him on tape, his quickness and speed and his ability to run with the ball and beat players stood out. I don’t think you can ever have enough of those players who have that quality in the final third. From what we’ve seen, he has the potential to be an electric player for us.”